The summer reading assignment for all incoming students is The Color of Water by James McBride.  This book will be part of the MCLA community reading on September 17, 2008 and will be used in your College Writing course this fall.

You should be prepared to discuss the following topics:

1. How important was education to Ruth McBride?
2. What effect did the style of writing (written in two voices) have on you as you read the book?  If the book had been written in a single voice, how would its impact have changed?
3. What reflections can you make regarding the importance (or not) of knowing one's own past.  Is this knowledge important in shaping one's own identity?  For many years Ruth McBride did not reveal her past.
4. What are some of your personal reflections having read the book?

Optional Writing Assignment: Write a 500 word essay on one of the four topics above. You will need to turn your essay in to your English faculty.  The essays will be evaluated and the winning essay(s) will be awarded a $150 gift certificate to the MCLA bookstore and will be published in the student newspaper, The Beacon.

Lecture/Concert:  Following the discussion groups, you will have an opportunity to hear James McBride speak about his book while enjoying some jazz music performed by his band.  Immediately after the presentation, there will be a book signing reception. Remember to bring your book!

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